The Philippines is an archipelagic country in Southeast Asia comprising of more than 7,000 islands. It is one of the fastest-growing economies in the region, and is home to the ADB headquarters.

Metro Manila is the national capital region of the Philippines. It covers one municipality (Pateros) and 16 cities, including the City of Manila (the country’s capital), Quezon City (the most populous), and Mandaluyong City (where ADB is located).

Strategically located at the center of Southeast Asia, Manila was the first “global city” that connected Asia, the Americas, and Europe during the Manila-Acapulco galleon trade in the 1500s. Prior to this, it was a bustling trading outpost for goods from the People’s Republic of China and other Asian neighbors. Today, Metro Manila is a cosmopolitan city with a rich history and unique fusion of East and West, meshed with modern and traditional influences.

Language
Filipino is the national language. English is the business language and is widely spoken. English is the official language that will be used at the forum.

Time Zone
Manila is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+8).

Business Hours
Private and government offices hold office either from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. on weekdays. Some private companies are open on Saturdays until 12:00 noon. Most shopping malls are open from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. There are also 24-hour convenience stores, ATMs, and pharmacies nationwide. Banks usually close at 4:00 p.m.

Currency Exchange and Credit Cards
The currency of Philippines is the Peso. As of 7 August 2018, the exchange rate is Php 53.04 = US$1. Exchange counters and ATMs are available at the airport, hotel lobbies, and at in-house banks at ADB headquarters. International credit cards such as American Express, Master Card, and Visa are widely accepted.

Climate
Average temperature in Metro Manila for the month of October 2018 will range from a low of 23ºC to a high of 31ºC. October is considered part of the rainy season, which is from June to November. Jackets, raincoats, or an umbrella are advised. Seasonal changes may also mean warm, humid days in between. For the latest weather information, check the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) website: www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph

Electric Current
Electrical sockets in the Philippines are usually 220 volts AC at 60 hertz, using type “A” electrical sockets. For other types of plugs, you may wish to bring an adaptor.

Telephone Codes
The Philippine code is +63 and the area code for Metro Manila is 2. Roaming charges may apply when using your personal mobile networks.

Emergency Numbers
• Police: 117
• National Emergency Hotline: 911

Smoking Restrictions
Smoking in public places is strictly prohibited per the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (Republic Act 9211). Violators may be fined.

Other Information
• List of Foreign Embassies in Manila
• Department of Foreign Affairs – Philippines
• Department of Tourism – Philippines